In the world of numismatics, few coins capture the imagination quite like the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar. This seemingly ordinary coin, minted over half a century ago, holds secrets that can turn a simple fifty-cent piece into a prized collector's item worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let's embark on a journey to uncover the true value of this fascinating piece of American coinage history.
The Historical Significance of the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar series, first minted in 1964, was a tribute to the assassinated President John F. Kennedy. By 1968, the coin had undergone a significant change in composition, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. coinage history.
The Transitional Composition
The 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar stands out for its unique metal content:
- 40% silver
- 60% copper
This composition was a direct result of the rising silver prices in the mid-1960s, which forced the U.S. Mint to reduce the silver content from the original 90% used in 1964. The 40% silver composition was a short-lived transitional phase, lasting only from 1965 to 1970, making coins from this period particularly interesting to collectors.
Minting Details and Production Numbers
Understanding the minting process and production numbers is crucial for assessing the potential value of a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar. Here's a breakdown of the mintage figures:
| Mint Location | Mintage | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Denver (D) | 246,951,930 | Business Strike |
| San Francisco (S) | 3,041,506 | Proof |
The substantial difference in mintage numbers between the business strikes and proofs immediately hints at the relative scarcity of the proof versions.
Factors Influencing the Value of 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars
Several key factors determine the worth of these coins:
- Mint Mark: Coins from Denver (D) or San Francisco (S) can have different values.
- Condition: The grade of the coin, from circulated to perfect mint state.
- Strike Quality: How well the design details are impressed on the coin.
- Luster: The original shine of uncirculated coins.
- Errors and Varieties: Rare minting errors or die varieties can significantly increase value.
Grading and Value Ranges
The condition of a coin is typically graded on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being a perfect specimen. Here's a more detailed breakdown of potential values based on condition:
1968-D (Business Strike)
| Grade | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Good (G-4) | $3 – $4 |
| Fine (F-12) | $3 – $5 |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | $3 – $6 |
| Extremely Fine (XF-40) | $4 – $7 |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | $5 – $8 |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-64) | $9 – $15 |
| Gem Uncirculated (MS-65+) | $20 – $750+ |
1968-S (Proof)
| Grade | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Impaired Proof | $5 – $10 |
| Proof-63 | $8 – $12 |
| Proof-65 | $10 – $15 |
| Proof-67 | $15 – $25 |
| Proof-69 | $30 – $100 |
| Proof-70 DCAM | $15,500 – $21,600 |
It's important to note that these values can fluctuate based on market conditions and individual coin characteristics.
Rare Varieties and Errors
For the avid collector, the real treasures often lie in rare varieties and errors. Some notable examples for the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar include:
- 1968-D Tripled Die Obverse (FS-014): Shows subtle tripling on lettering.
- 1968-S Doubled Die Obverse (FS-101): Exhibits doubling on the date and lettering.
- 1968-S Inverted Mint Mark (FS-511): Features an S mint mark punched upside down.
- 1968-D Triple Clip + Partial Collar: A coin with multiple striking errors.
These varieties can command significant premiums over standard issues, often selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on condition and rarity.
The Silver Content Factor
An often-overlooked aspect of the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is its intrinsic silver value. With 40% silver content, each coin contains approximately 0.1479 troy ounces of pure silver. This means that even in poor condition, the coin has a base value tied to the current silver spot price.
For example, at a silver price of $25 per ounce, the melt value of a 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar would be about $3.70. This creates a price floor for these coins, ensuring they'll always be worth more than their face value.
Preservation and Care
Proper preservation is crucial for maintaining the value of your 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars. Here are some expert tips:
- Handle coins by their edges to avoid leaving fingerprints on the surfaces.
- Store in non-PVC holders or albums to prevent chemical reactions.
- Keep coins in a cool, dry environment to prevent toning or corrosion.
- Never clean your coins! Natural patina is preferred, and cleaning can severely reduce value.
Authentication and Professional Grading
For coins that you suspect may be particularly valuable, professional grading and authentication services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) can provide:
- Accurate condition assessment
- Protection against counterfeits
- Encapsulation for long-term preservation
- Potential value increase for high-grade specimens
The Collector's Perspective
As a seasoned collector, I've seen firsthand how the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar can surprise even experienced numismatists. One memorable instance involved a collector who bought a roll of 1968-D half dollars for $20 at an estate sale. Upon careful examination, one coin turned out to be the rare Tripled Die Obverse variety in MS-65 condition, ultimately selling for over $3,000 at auction.
This anecdote underscores the importance of thorough examination and the potential for significant finds even in seemingly ordinary coins.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
The market for 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars has shown steady growth over the past decade, particularly for high-grade specimens and rare varieties. Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Increasing interest in 20th-century U.S. coinage
- Growing awareness of transitional silver issues
- Limited supply of high-grade examples as many were circulated
Looking ahead, the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar is likely to continue appreciating, especially for top-quality examples and rare varieties. As the coin approaches its 60th anniversary, we may see renewed interest driving prices higher.
Conclusion: Is Your 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar a Hidden Gem?
While most 1968 Kennedy Half Dollars are worth their silver content or slightly more, the potential for finding a valuable specimen makes these coins perennially interesting to collectors and investors alike. From pristine uncirculated business strikes to flawless proofs and rare errors, these coins can range in value from a few dollars to tens of thousands.
The key to unlocking the true value of your 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar lies in careful examination, understanding of varieties and grades, and appreciation for the historical context of these coins. Whether you're a seasoned numismatist or just starting your coin collecting journey, the 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar offers a fascinating window into American coinage history and the potential for exciting discoveries.
Remember, the thrill of coin collecting isn't just in the monetary value, but in the stories each coin tells and the piece of history you hold in your hand. So, take a closer look at that 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar – you might just be holding a small fortune!
